My steering cable outer plastic cover has split, and the surrounding wire has rusted over a length of about 8", so it's probably time to replace it. Whilst the integrity of the underlying cable may be OK, I can only think of really bad outcomes if it failed.

Q's Are steering cables specific to the engine brand, or were they more generic?If specific to Evinrude, did the connection to the motor vary as it evolved, or might I find a more recent cable that fits?Where do I try to source one ? Local dealer? Or do I have to search elsewhere?

Hello Andrew,It's a very wise idea to install a new steering cable. They come in different lengths of course, but otherwise they are pretty much generic.This procedure is a rather simple change over. (two beers and it's done) Easier than a hip replacement! (well, not quite as much grease on everything as with the cable change over)Make sure you have a few rags on hand, before you commence the surgery.

Simply unbolt/unscrew all the obvious bits on the steering assembly then drag out your original cable, lay it out straight, take a measurement of it's overall length and toddle down to your local Whitworth's store or ship chandlery. Better still, take your original cable with you in your "howdy" Watch out for all the greasy bits!

Hi LadsNice bit of medical analogy Guy .The Dangar Marine man I find fascinating and I recommended him to members some time ago . He also drinks Coopers like me -no he drinks less .The system he is replacing on the video is not the pull push worm I had on SX 2 .Don't know what your system is A but could be the same old plastic coated cable as mine was .If so I suggest a Multiflex unit which is now on my boat . Mercman has driven it ! Dearer than just cable replace but worthwhile .Hydraulic preferred but no value .

Looking fwd to having more time on water with the Hartley next year. With inheritance, could probs buy a new boat, but keen to keep my current one . It's got style, and no pretence. That's what our family is all about.

Hi Andrew,We are all sorry to learn of the loss of your Mum. Our sincere condolences to you and your family. It's a real trying time, that's for sure.

On another note, simply re-power your beloved Hartley with 2 x brand new 75hp BRP (Evinrude) outboards. Provided your transom is good and strong, of course. Combined, these two gems will probably use a lot less juice that your old V4.Make sure you have them fitted with hydraulic steering whilst they are being installed.

Pretty much all steering wheels will fit the morse taper & key way on.

As for your throttle cable.. as with Merc and OMC, Throttle and Shift Cables are the same, but not between brands, nor electric shift, of course!I have a reasonable selection of Merc and OMC Control Cables in stock. Let me know the length you are chasing and I'll check at this end for you.

I'd be using a water based paint. After all, you boat will be in the water. OMG.

No expert on steering A but the systems you referred to are the same . Depends on choice .

I installed the Multiflex in place of the 55 year old pulley system and what a difference. It doesn't come with a steering wheel (thank goodness).You should be able to use the same wheel .The important thing is cable length (see instructions) as it comes in fixed lengths .

Still don't know what you current system is so as Mercman says you may only need new cable .

Pulled out steering cable today, and realised that the reason the steering was so difficult was not only that the cable had worn half way through (thinking really awful outcome if cable broke whilst cruising at whatever knots a Hartley and a 115hp motor do), but that the helm was full of really old hard sticky grease.

Decided to just replace the whole lot, including steering wheel.

Hopefully we have just found another long term beach house rental at Sorrento ( Port Phillip Bay), so boat will get a lot more use.

The winter has been good to me for backcountry skiing, and this will probably take precedence over the next month or so. I've had some good trips up into the mountains,,and going again this weekend